Dear Burlington School District Board,
My name is Brian Dalla Mura, and I am writing to express my deep concern and strong desire for the Burlington School District Board to establish a subcommittee dedicated to reviewing and revising its discipline and restraint and seclusion policies.
I would like to highlight that I played a leading role in advocating for similar policy changes in the Harwood Unified Union School District and was actively involved in supporting legislative efforts such as House Bill 409. The experiences and lessons learned from these endeavors have made it abundantly clear that proactive and transparent policy revisions are essential to ensure the safety, well-being, and equitable treatment of all students in our school systems.
It is imperative that you prioritize the creation of a board-subcommittee with diverse representation, including educators, parents, students, and community members, to collaboratively address these critical matters. This subcommittee’s primary purpose should be to:
1. Review the existing discipline and restraint and seclusion policies within the Burlington School District.
2. Identify areas where these policies may be improved to align with best practices, legal requirements, and the well-being of students.
3. Solicit input and feedback from stakeholders to ensure that the revised policies reflect the needs and concerns of our community.
4. Develop a comprehensive plan for the implementation of these revised policies, including training and support for staff.
I firmly believe that the establishment of such a subcommittee will not only demonstrate the Burlington School District’s commitment to providing a safe and inclusive educational environment but also serve as a model for other districts seeking to effect positive change.
I kindly request an opportunity to discuss this matter further with you and the appropriate stakeholders. Together, we can take meaningful steps toward ensuring that our schools are nurturing, supportive spaces for all students.
Thank you for your attention to this critical issue. I look forward to hearing from you and working collaboratively toward a safer and more equitable educational environment for our students.
Sincerely,
Brian Dalla Mura
